WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR
Jordan Smith of ICG Networks began his career path by setting up wireless Internet for the fraternities at his Alma mater, Kansas State University. But he didn't think that it would lead him to connecting Internet for the entire cities...and eventually, islands.
But such is the life of an entrepreneur: one never knows what to expect and what opportunities will arise. And that's the path that Jordan has led since he graduated from K-State.
After starting Propel Wireless and selling it in four short years, Jordan Smith launched Insight Consulting Group, Kansas City's premier Wireless Local Exchange Carrier (WILEC). ICG Networks provides always-on high-speed fixed broadband access solutions to the growing business community throughout Kansas City, Wichita and Austin, Texas. ICG Networks is now known as the largest wireless business broadband provider in the region.
With standout clients such as the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, Power and Light, the Sheraton and Intercontinental hotels on the Plaza, Sporting KC and the Kansas Speedway, it's easy to see why ICG Networks is a credible and successful KC company. Jordan himself has also worked with the White House and an entire cluster of islands to provide efficient and fast wireless services. Talk about a resume builder.
Jordan has traveled all over the world to connect people with high-speed Internet access, so why did he decide to land (and stay) in Kansas City?
"Kansas City is an untapped market," he explains. "It is economical to grow to different parts of the city and be able to provide this service for people that normally wouldn't be able to afford it."
Launched in 2007, ICG Networks seems like a large undertaking. But the company is actually only made up of three Internet experts, making the bizperc coworking community the ideal office space for this small business.
"There are many opportunities here at bizperc," says Jordan. "There are so many tech-savvy businesses to work with, too. I believe that ICG Networks compliments bizperc very well with what we offer. Plus, you never know who you're going to meet here!"
Being in Kansas City also means that Jordan and ICG Networks will experience the coming of Google Fiber. But is this a threat to his business? Jordan doesn't think so whatsoever.
"Because of Google Fiber, our business will grow and reach new markets," he says. "But once Fiber launches, it will take a long time for it to be laid. In fact, Google will lay the fiber at about a mile a day. We deliver that same speed and quality at about 12 miles per day. So now, people can use our network to get Google services and also use ICG as a backup."
What's next for Jordan and ICG Networks? Other than the launch of their new website (coming January 2012), the company is simply conducting (outstanding) business-as-usual.
"I've already successfully sold two businesses," says Jordan. "Maybe I'll do it again. But for now, I'm just taking it a day at a time. I'm playing. This business is fun for me."
Want to learn more about bizperc and meet some tenants just like Jordan? Attend the bizperc Showcase from 4:00-5:30PM on January 19th, 2012! Read more.
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